“The Student Internship Grant Initiative provides the next generation with the opportunity to gain professional experience, enhance job skills, and learn more about the credit union industry,” said NCUA Board Chairman Debbie Matz. “Additionally, this initiative allows low-income credit unions to find and groom the industry’s future leaders. The infusion of new and diverse talent will assist credit unions to continue to improve their member services.”

NCUA will award up to $4,000 to each eligible credit union. To be eligible, a credit union must have a low-income designation and be financially viable. Low-income credit unions may only use these grants for a student internship. Credit unions that received a student internship award in 2012 are not eligible for funding this year.

NCUA will accept applications from May 1–20. NCUA’s Office of Small Credit Union Initiatives will review applications immediately upon receipt and issue approvals on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are exhausted. Credit unions are therefore encouraged to submit their applications to NCUA as soon as possible once the application period opens.

NCUA has provided funding under the Student Internship Grant Initiative to low-income designated credit unions since 1998. In 2012, NCUA awarded 24 credit unions with nearly $106,000 under this program.

Funding for the Student Internship Grant Initiative is provided by the Community Development Revolving Loan Fund (CDRLF). Congress established the CDRLF to provide grants and loans to credit unions that serve low-income communities. NCUA’s OSCUI administers these funds. Since 2001, Congress has appropriated $10.4 million for CDRLF grants.